Picton to Nelson Road Trip

June 7th, 2025

Planning a road trip from Picton to Nelson on New Zealand’s stunning South Island? Whether you’re pressed for time, craving a scenic coastal drive, or eager to explore national parks on foot, this guide breaks down the three best options for your journey. Each route offers a unique experience tailored to different interests and schedules, so you can pick the perfect way to travel between these two iconic destinations.

I’m Michael, a New Zealand travel designer passionate about helping travelers maximize their South Island adventures. In this article, I’ll walk you through each Picton to Nelson road trip option, highlighting the key stops, sights, and experiences along the way. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which route suits your style and timeframe best.

Introduction to the Picton to Nelson Road Trip Options

The drive from Picton to Nelson covers approximately 140 to 200 kilometers depending on the route you choose. Driving times typically range from about two hours to three and a half hours, but be sure to add 10-15% extra time to your schedule for traffic, stops, and detours.

These three distinct routes cater to different traveler types:

Route One: For those short on time who want to make steady progress.
Route Two: For those seeking a scenic coastal drive with beautiful bays and beaches.
Route Three: For nature lovers eager to hike and explore national parks along the way.

Most travelers arrive in Picton via ferry from the North Island, usually in the early afternoon, which influences how much time you have to get to Nelson and explore en route.

Route One: The Quick and Efficient Drive via Blenheim

This first option is ideal if you arrive in Picton around midday or early afternoon and want to make your way to Nelson without losing too much time.

The drive covers around 140 kilometers and usually takes about two hours, plus some extra time for stops. The route heads south from Picton along State Highway 1 (SH1) towards the Blenheim region.

Key Highlights Along Route One

Blenheim: This is one of New Zealand’s premier wine-growing areas, famous for world-class vineyards such as Cloudy Bay and Wither Hills. It’s a perfect spot to stop for lunch or afternoon tea. If you’re interested in aviation, the Omaka Aviation Center is also worth a visit.
Havelock: Known as the “Green-lipped Mussel Capital of the World,” this charming fishing village is famed for its fresh seafood. You can enjoy mussels here or explore local art galleries for a cultural break.
Polaris Bridge: A must-stop for fans of “The Lord of the Rings,” this filming location offers scenic walks and photo opportunities. The car park and easy trails make it a great place to stretch your legs.

After Polaris Bridge, the road winds gently as you approach Tasman Bay, with the Abel Tasman National Park visible across the water. You’ll arrive in Nelson by late afternoon, ready to explore this vibrant city or relax after your drive.

Why Choose Route One?

This route strikes a balance between efficiency and sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience some of Marlborough’s famous wine country and coastal charm without taking a lot of extra time. The stops at Blenheim and Havelock add flavor and variety to the trip, making it more than just a drive.

Route Two: The Scenic Coastal Drive Along Queen Charlotte Drive

If you have a bit more time and want a scenic, less-traveled road, the Queen Charlotte Drive route offers stunning coastal views and a memorable driving experience.

This route covers a shorter distance of around 113 kilometers but takes about the same two hours to drive due to its winding nature and numerous viewpoints.

Queen Charlotte Drive Highlights

Stunning Beaches and Bays: The road hugs the coastline, offering spectacular views of turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and lush hillsides. There are plenty of spots to pull over and soak in the scenery or snap photos.
Walking Tracks and Viewpoints: Along the way, you’ll find trails and lookout points ideal for short walks or picnics. This route is perfect if you want to combine driving with some light hiking or nature stops.
Havelock Connection: The route eventually connects with SH6 near Havelock, where you can stop again for coffee or afternoon tea, and sample the famous green-lipped mussels.

Be aware that Queen Charlotte Drive is quite windy, so it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those prone to motion sickness or nervous about narrow, curvy roads. However, for those who enjoy a thrilling drive with spectacular views, this option is a must.

Why Choose Route Two?

This route is perfect for travelers who want a scenic, coastal adventure and don’t mind taking a bit more time to enjoy the journey. It’s less busy than the main highway and offers a unique perspective of the Marlborough Sounds region.

Route Three: The Nature Lover’s Route via Nelson Lakes National Park

For those with a full day and a passion for hiking and nature, the third route is the ultimate choice. Covering over 200 kilometers, this route takes roughly three and a half hours to drive, making it a longer but far more rewarding journey.

Starting Early for a Full-Day Adventure

This route is best suited for travelers who can start their day early, either by arriving in Picton first thing in the morning via ferry or by spending the previous night nearby.

You’ll drive through the scenic Waihou River Valley along SH63 towards Saint Arnaud, a small village that serves as the gateway to the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park.

Exploring Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park is one of New Zealand’s underrated gems, offering a variety of beautiful hikes around crystal-clear alpine lakes and towering mountain peaks.

Lake Rotoiti: Walk the lakeside trails to enjoy tranquil waters and native bush. The area is peaceful and less crowded than many other parks.
Mount Robert: For the more adventurous, the Mount Robert track provides panoramic views of the park’s mountains and lakes, a perfect reward on a clear day.

Continuing to Nelson or Abel Tasman National Park

After exploring Saint Arnaud and the national park, you’ll head north towards Nelson, a straightforward drive of about one and a half hours.

Alternatively, if you plan to spend some days in the Abel Tasman National Park, I recommend taking a detour through Tapawera. This route leads you directly into the heart of Abel Tasman, with access to popular spots like Kaiteriteri, Motueka, Tasman Village, Ruby Bay, and Mapua.

Why Choose Route Three?

This route is designed for travelers who want to combine their road trip with some quality hiking and nature exploration. It requires more time but rewards you with some of the South Island’s most beautiful landscapes and outdoor experiences.

Comparing the Three Picton to Nelson Road Trip Options

Route	Distance	Approximate Driving Time	Main Features	Ideal For
Via Blenheim (SH1 & SH6)	~140 km	~2 hours (+ 10-15% extra)	Wine country, Omaka Aviation Center, Havelock seafood, Polaris Bridge	Travelers short on time wanting a good mix of stops
Queen Charlotte Drive	~113 km	~2 hours (+ 10-15% extra)	Scenic coastal views, beaches, walking tracks, less traffic	Nature lovers wanting a scenic, less-traveled route
Nelson Lakes National Park via SH63	~200+ km	~3.5 hours	Hiking, alpine lakes, mountain views, access to Abel Tasman	Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with a full day available

Additional Travel Tips for Your Picton to Nelson Road Trip

Time Your Arrival: Most ferries from the North Island arrive in Picton in the early afternoon. Plan your route accordingly to maximize daylight and sightseeing opportunities.
Allow Extra Time: Google Maps often underestimates driving time by about 10-15% in this region due to winding roads and scenic stops, so budget extra time to avoid rushing.
Download a Travel Planning Sheet: If you want help organizing your trip, download a free NZ travel planning sheet linked below. It includes detailed itineraries, accommodation suggestions, and rental car options.
Consider Accommodation: If taking the longer nature route, consider staying overnight near Saint Arnaud or in the Abel Tasman region to break up the drive and enjoy more time outdoors.
Check Road Conditions: Especially in winter months, some roads can be affected by weather. Check for any closures or advisories before departing.

Final Thoughts: Which Picton to Nelson Road Trip is Right for You?

Choosing the best Picton to Nelson road trip depends largely on your interests and schedule. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Marlborough’s wine country and coastal charm, Route One via Blenheim is the most efficient and rewarding.

If you prefer stunning coastal scenery and a less busy road, the Queen Charlotte Drive offers a memorable journey surrounded by bays and beaches. Just be prepared for winding roads and slower driving.

For those with a love of hiking and nature, and who can start early enough, the Nelson Lakes National Park route is the most immersive option. It transforms a simple road trip into an outdoor adventure with breathtaking landscapes.

Whatever route you choose, the drive from Picton to Nelson is a fantastic introduction to the diversity and beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. From vineyards to coastal vistas to alpine lakes, this journey showcases some of the best the region has to offer.

For more detailed itineraries and other road trip ideas across New Zealand’s North and South Islands, explore additional travel resources and planning tools to make the most of your trip.

Happy travels and enjoy your Picton to Nelson road trip adventure!